1 How long do they last?

Solar electric panels like those made by Hanwha solar have a 25 year power output warranty. They commonly last many years more than that. The system will likely produce electricity for 30 to 40 years.

2 I’ve heard about a new low cost solar panel…

There is lots of investment in solar panel technology development. The best producing solar panels for rooftops are crystalline silicon solar cells. These offer the highest efficiency, reducing the cost of mounting equipment and time to install. Low efficiency panels are less expensive per panel, but will often result in higher overall costs due to the larger array size.

3 How do I know what my system is producing?

The inverter has a display that shows the cumulative energy produced by the solar array. Most brands of inverters will also come with a web page that will give you daily, weekly, monthly and annual power output as well as other useful information.

4 How do the solar panel systems attach to my roof?

Novo Solar Solutions uses the Fast-Rack system. This unique solar panel mounting system secures the panels to the roof with low profile brackets covered with anodized trim pieces. They have special self sealing roof attachments that make sure the panels are securely attached but watertight.

5 What if I have to replace my roof in 10 years?

If your roof needs replacing in the future, the system can be disassembled and reinstalled after the roofers have completed the roof.

6 How much energy can I gather with a solar electric system?

In most of Canada, a kilowatt (1000 watts) of solar panels (area A. of 80 – 90 ft2), mounted with good exposure facing south, could generate between 1000 and 1400 kilowatt hours (kWh) of elec- tricity per year.

7 Explain Grid-Tie to me. What can I expect?

Grid-tie solar systems are used for homes or businesses where a utility has an existing power grid. A solar panel installation mounted on the roof can produce some or most of the electricity consumed. Most Canadian houses use between 5,000 kWh (very efficient) and 13,000 kWh (not very efficient) per year. Solar panel system can reduce or eliminate your power bill.

8 What happens during a power failure?

Grid-tie systems safely disconnect in the event of a power failure. We offer the option of a Secure Source battery backup that would run some selected loads like pumps or lighting in the event of a blackout.

9 Explain Off-Grid Solar Systems to me. What could it do for me?

Solar can be used to provide the majority or all of the power in a remote cottage or home. Ideally, the residential solar panels system is designed by a professional to match your lifestyle and electrical load. The systems are modular so they can grow as your power needs change. Off-grid solar systems have storage batteries, and often have generators for backup. The inverter systems for off-grid applications have built-in battery chargers, and can even be used to start the generator automatically if needed.

10 What do I need to start?

Contact us for a telephone consultation so we can discuss your current power usage and what size of system would best suit your needs. We will also discuss what the budget would be for the project and possible financing options. It would be best to have your BC Hydro bill available when you call.

11 What happens in winter?

Solar energy does vary throughout the year. In practice, grid-tie system owners don’t usually worry about snow as winter months have low production.

12 Do you provide financing?

Ask about our Financing options for home owners. We can create a plan that will match the amount you save on your hydro bill so that your new solar energy system doesn’t increase your monthly budget.

If you are interested in discussing the project further we will come to your home to assess your property and see if you have a suitable location for solar panel placement. Once we have designed the ideal package for you, we will provide you with a detailed quote.

If you choose to proceed we will have your system installed within 2 weeks of your order date and power from your solar system will start to flow. Your roof will be working for you!

13 What type of mounting system for residential PV systems safeguards against roof leaks?

The Fast-Rack Rail System was designed to allow for safe and simple installation of solar PV systems on sloped roofs with a minimum number of roof penetrations. Please refer to this video to see how this mounting system is installed to safeguard against leaks.

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About Novo Solar

Novo Solar Solutions is dedicated to helping our clients use solar electricity in their homes and businesses. With over 25 years of industry experience behind us and 85 years of combined construction trade experience, we use our knowledge base and the best equipment available to provide quality energy solutions.